updated 02:05 pm EDT, Fri March 26, 2010

Fingerprint scanner paired with heat sensor

Victorinox on Friday expanded its line of USB drives with the Secure Pro. The new device integrates several levels of security, with data protected using 256-bit AES encryption. Users can also take advantage of a fingerprint scanner, built directly onto the removable USB stick. The fingerprint identification components are even paired with a heat sensor that will not provide access to the data if the finger is not within a range of typical body temperature.

The encryption technology is based on MKI's Schnuffi platform, which is claimed to help prevent unauthorized access by integrating all of the coding and security steps onto a single chip. Attempts to forcibly open the device triggers a self-destruct mechanism which is said to irreversibly burn the CPU and memory chip.

Aside from the security features, the Secure Pro still integrates a basic set of Swiss Army tools. Users can deploy the integrated knife, scissors, or nail file with a screwdriver point. The housing also features a laser pointer and a retractable ball-point pen.

The Secure Pro is currently available with storage capacities between 8GB and 32GB, with pricing ranging from £50 (~$75 USD) to £180 (~$265 USD).